U.S. patent application number 12/852639 was filed with the patent office on 2012-02-09 for packaging containers having conformation induction members and methods of making and using same.
Invention is credited to Donald E. Weder.
Application Number | 20120031055 12/852639 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45555039 |
Filed Date | 2012-02-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120031055 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Weder; Donald E. |
February 9, 2012 |
PACKAGING CONTAINERS HAVING CONFORMATION INDUCTION MEMBERS AND
METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SAME
Abstract
Packaging containers for packaging various materials, including
granular, flowable and food materials, are described herein. The
packaging containers include conformation induction member(s) that
are involved in controlling the contour of the filled
container.
Inventors: |
Weder; Donald E.; (Highland,
IL) |
Family ID: |
45555039 |
Appl. No.: |
12/852639 |
Filed: |
August 9, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/469 ; 383/72;
53/471 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 33/00 20130101;
B65D 31/16 20130101; B65B 25/026 20130101; B65B 5/067 20130101;
B65D 85/52 20130101; B65B 5/045 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/469 ; 383/72;
53/471 |
International
Class: |
B65B 5/00 20060101
B65B005/00; B65B 7/02 20060101 B65B007/02; B65D 33/28 20060101
B65D033/28 |
Claims
1. A container for packaging an item, the container comprising: a
base having an upper end, a lower end, a sidewall, an outer
peripheral surface, an inner peripheral surface, and a receiving
space, the sidewall formed of a first panel and a second panel that
are connected together at a first edge and a second edge, a first
end and a second end when the container is in a flattened
condition, the first end of the lower end connected to the first
edge of the sidewall and the second end of the lower end connected
to the second edge of the sidewall; a first conformation induction
member extending generally downwardly from the first edge of the
sidewall and connecting the first and second panels of the sidewall
at at least one point apart from the first edge; a second
conformation induction member extending generally downwardly from
the second edge of the sidewall and connecting the first and second
panels of the sidewall at at least one point apart from the second
edge; and wherein when an item is disposed in the container, the
first and second ends of the lower end are disposed substantially
below and adjacent a lower end of the item, whereby the combination
of the first and second conformation induction members and the item
disposed in the container substantially control the contour of the
filled container.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein the first conformation
induction member extends from the first edge of the sidewall to a
position on the lower end of the container between the first and
second ends thereof.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein the second conformation
induction member extends from the second edge of the sidewall to a
position on the lower end of the container between the first and
second ends thereof.
4. The container of claim 1, wherein the first conformation
induction member is a seal.
5. The container of claim 1, wherein the first conformation
induction member comprises a plurality of seals.
6. The container of claim 1, wherein the lower end has a linear
configuration.
7. The container of claim 1, wherein the container further
comprises at least one additional conformation induction
member.
8. A method of packaging an item, comprising the steps of:
providing the container of claim 1; providing an item; and
disposing the item within the inner retaining space of the
container, whereby the first and second ends of the lower end are
disposed substantially below a lower end of the item, and the
combination of the first and second conformation induction members
and the item substantially control the contour of the filled
container.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing the
container, the first conformation induction member of the container
extends from the first edge of the sidewall to a position on the
lower end of the container between the first and second ends
thereof.
10. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing the
container, the second conformation induction member of the
container extends from the second edge of the sidewall to a
position on the lower end of the container between the first and
second ends thereof.
11. The method of claim 8, wherein the second conformation
induction member is a seal.
12. The method of claim 8, wherein the second conformation
induction member comprises a plurality of seals.
13. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing the
container, said container further comprises at least one additional
conformation induction member.
14. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing a
container, the lower end has a linear configuration.
15. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of disposing the
item within the container, a lower portion of the container
substantially conforms to the configuration of a lower portion of
the item.
16. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the steps of providing a
container and providing an item, the container is further defined
as a sleeve and the item is further defined as a flower pot.
17. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a flowable material.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the flowable material is
selected from the group consisting of solid materials, liquid
materials, gaseous materials and combinations thereof.
19. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a granular material.
20. The method of claim 8 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a food product.
21. A container for packaging an item, the container comprising: a
base having an upper end, a lower end, a sidewall, an outer
peripheral surface, an inner peripheral surface, and a receiving
space, the sidewall formed of a first panel and a second panel that
are connected together at a first edge and a second edge, a first
end and a second end when the container is in a flattened
condition, the first end of the lower end connected to the first
edge of the sidewall and the second end of the lower end connected
to the second edge of the sidewall; a first conformation induction
member connected to the lower end at a position between the first
and second ends thereof, the first conformation induction member
extending generally upwardly towards the first edge of the sidewall
and connecting the first and second panels of the sidewall at at
least one point apart from the first edge of the sidewall; a second
conformation induction member connected to the lower end at a
position between the second and first ends thereof, the second
conformation induction member extending generally upwardly towards
the second edge of the sidewall and connecting the first and second
panels of the sidewall at at least one point apart from the second
edge of the sidewall; wherein when an item is disposed in the
container, the first and second ends of the lower end are disposed
substantially below and adjacent a lower end of the item, whereby
the combination of the first and second conformation induction
members and the item disposed in the container substantially
control the contour of the filled container.
22. The container of claim 21, wherein the first conformation
induction member is a seal.
23. The container of claim 21, wherein the first conformation
induction member comprises a plurality of seals.
24. The container of claim 21, wherein the lower end has a linear
configuration.
25. The container of claim 21, wherein the container further
comprises at least one additional conformation induction
member.
26. A method of packaging an item, comprising the steps of:
providing the container of claim 21; providing an item; and
disposing the item within the inner retaining space of the
container, whereby the first and second ends of the lower end are
disposed substantially below a lower end of the item, and the
combination of the first and second conformation induction members
and the item substantially control the contour of the filled
container.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein the second conformation
induction member is a seal.
28. The method of claim 26, wherein the second conformation
induction member comprises a plurality of seals.
29. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of providing the
container, said container further comprises at least one additional
conformation induction member.
30. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of providing a
container, the lower end has a linear configuration.
31. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of disposing the
item within the container, a lower portion of the container
substantially conforms to the configuration of a lower portion of
the item.
32. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the steps of providing a
container and providing an item, the container is further defined
as a sleeve and the item is further defined as a flower pot.
33. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a flowable material.
34. The method of claim 33, wherein the flowable material is
selected from the group consisting of solid materials, liquid
materials, gaseous materials and combinations thereof.
35. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a granular material.
36. The method of claim 26 wherein, in the step of providing an
item, the item comprises a food product.
37-42. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY FUNDED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENTLY DISCLOSED AND CLAIMED INVENTIVE
CONCEPT(S)
[0003] 1. Field of the Presently Disclosed and Claimed Inventive
Concept(s)
[0004] The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is
related to packaging containers used for packaging various
items.
[0005] 2. Description of the Background Art
[0006] Packaging materials for covering various items have been
known in the art for many years and have various configurations.
While the prior art containers and methods for covering items using
same have been widely accepted, new and improved methods for
providing packaging materials, and in particular packaging
containers, having improved aesthetic qualities as well as enhanced
production speed, reduced tooling costs and reduced possibility of
leakage, are being sought which are less costly. It is to such
packaging materials and methods for producing and using same that
the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is
directed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1A is an elevational view of a packaging container of
the prior art.
[0008] FIGS. 1B and 1C are perspective views of the packaging
container of FIG. 1A having an item disposed therein.
[0009] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of another packaging container
of the prior art, a lower end of said packaging container having a
half-hexagonal shape.
[0010] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of a packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with at
least two conformation induction members which extend from a
sidewall thereof.
[0011] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of another packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with at
least two conformation induction members which extend from a lower
end thereof.
[0012] FIG. 5 is an elevational view of another packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the packaging container is provided
with at least two conformation induction members, each of which
extend from a lower end thereof to a sidewall thereof.
[0013] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of yet another packaging
container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s) and having at least two
conformation induction members and a non-linear upper edge.
[0014] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of yet another packaging
container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s) and having at least two
conformation induction members and an upper portion separable from
a lower portion of the packaging container via a linear detaching
element.
[0015] FIG. 8 is an elevational view of yet another packaging
container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s) and having at least two
conformation induction members and an upper portion separable from
a lower portion of the packaging container via a non-linear
detaching element.
[0016] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of yet another packaging
container constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s) and having at least two
conformation induction members and a skirt insert/extension
attached thereto.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the packaging container of
FIG. 5 having an item partially disposed therein.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the packaging container and
item of FIG. 10, wherein the item is almost fully disposed within
the packaging container.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the packaging container and
item of FIG. 11, disposed upon a support surface.
[0020] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with a
single conformation induction member extending from a sidewall
thereof to a lower end thereof.
[0021] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of a packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with a
single conformation induction member extending from a sidewall
thereof.
[0022] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with a
single conformation induction member extending from a sidewall
thereof to a lower end thereof.
[0023] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the packaging container of
FIG. 13 having an item disposed therein.
[0024] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the packaging container of
FIG. 14 having an item disposed therein.
[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the packaging container of
FIG. 15 having an item disposed therein.
[0026] FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of a packaging container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), wherein the container is provided with four
conformation induction members.
[0027] FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the packaging container of
FIG. 19 having at least one item disposed therein.
[0028] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the packaging container and
at least one item of FIG. 20, disposed upon a support surface.
[0029] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the packaging container and
at least one item of FIG. 21, wherein the packaging container is
secured about the at least one item via a bonding material.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIVE CONCEPT(S)
[0030] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) in detail, it is to be
understood that the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) is not limited in its application to the details of
construction and the arrangement of the components or steps or
methodologies set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the drawings. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or
carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the
phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of
description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0031] Unless otherwise defined herein, technical terms used in
connection with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) shall have the meanings that are commonly understood by
those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, unless otherwise
required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and
plural terms shall include the singular.
[0032] All of the articles and/or methods disclosed and claimed
herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in
light of the present disclosure. While the articles and methods of
the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) have been
described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to
those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the
articles and/or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of
steps of the method described herein without departing from the
concept, spirit and scope of the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s). All such similar substitutes and
modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be
within the spirit, scope and concept of the presently disclosed and
claimed inventive concept(s) as defined by the appended claims.
[0033] The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is
directed to a container for packaging at least one item. The
container includes a base having an upper end, a lower end, a
sidewall, an outer peripheral surface, an inner peripheral surface,
and a receiving space. The sidewall is formed of a first panel and
a second panel that are connected together at a first edge and a
second edge, a first end and a second end when the container is in
a flattened condition. The first end of the lower end is connected
to the first edge of the sidewall, while the second end of the
lower end is connected to the second edge of the sidewall.
[0034] The container further includes at least one conformation
induction member connecting the first and second panels of the
sidewall at at least one point apart from the first and second
edges. Thus, when an item is disposed in the container, the first
and second ends of the lower end are disposed substantially below
and adjacent a lower end of the item, whereby the combination of
the at least one conformation induction member and the item
disposed in the container substantially control the contour of the
filled container. In certain embodiments, the at least one
conformation induction member may be a seal or a plurality of
seals.
[0035] In one embodiment, the conformation induction member is
connected to the lower end at a position between the first and
second ends thereof. The conformation induction member extends
generally upwardly towards at least one of the first and second
edges of the sidewall and connects the first and second panels of
the sidewall at at least one point apart from the at least one of
the first and second edges.
[0036] In another embodiment, the conformation induction member
extends generally downwardly from at least one of the first and
second edges of the sidewall and connects the first and second
panels of the sidewall at at least one point apart from the at
least one of the first and second edges.
[0037] In yet another embodiment, the container is provided with at
least two conformation induction members. In this embodiment, a
first conformation induction member extends generally downwardly
from the first edge of the sidewall and connects the first and
second panels of the sidewall at at least one point apart from the
first edge. A second conformation induction member extends
generally downwardly from the second edge of the sidewall and
connects the first and second panels of the sidewall at at least
one point apart from the second edge. In one alternative, the first
and/or second conformation induction members may extend from the
first/second edge of the sidewall to a position on the lower end of
the container between the first and second ends thereof.
[0038] In a further embodiment, the container is provided with at
least two conformation induction members that are connected to the
lower end of the container. In this embodiment, a first
conformation induction member is connected to the lower end at a
position between the first and second ends thereof; the first
conformation induction member extends generally upwardly towards
the first edge of the sidewall and connects the first and second
panels of the sidewall at at least one point apart from the first
edge of the sidewall. A second conformation induction member is
connected to the lower end at a position between the second and
first ends thereof; the second conformation induction member
extends generally upwardly towards the second edge of the sidewall
and connects the first and second panels of the sidewall at at
least one point apart from the second edge of the sidewall. In one
alternative, the first and/or second conformation induction member
may extend from the lower end to the first/second edge of the
sidewall.
[0039] In yet another embodiment, the container is provided with at
least three conformation induction members. The addition of
multiple conformation induction members provides greater control of
the contour of the lower portion of the filled container. In
addition, the lower portion of the container may substantially
conform to the configuration of a lower portion of the item.
[0040] The lower end of the container of the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s) may be provided with any
configuration known in the art and/or described herein. In one
embodiment, the lower end of the container may have a linear
configuration.
[0041] The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is
further directed to a method of packaging an item. Said method
includes the steps of providing any of the containers described
herein above, and disposing an item within the inner retaining
space of the container. In this manner, the first and second ends
of the lower end of the container are disposed substantially below
and adjacent a lower end of the item, and whereby the combination
of the at least one conformation induction member(s) and the item
disposed in the container substantially control the contour of the
filled container.
[0042] The item may be, for example but not way of limitation, a
flowable material, a solid material, a liquid material, a gaseous
material, a granular material, and combinations thereof. In one
embodiment, the item may be a food product. In another embodiment,
the item may be a floral item, such as but not limited to, a flower
pot, floral grouping, potted plant, and the like. When the item is
a floral item, the container may be further defined as a floral
sleeve.
[0043] As utilized in accordance with the present disclosure, the
following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to
have the following meanings:
[0044] The use of the word "a" or "an" when used in conjunction
with the term "comprising" in the claims and/or the specification
may mean "one," but it is also consistent with the meaning of "one
or more," "at least one," and "one or more than one." The use of
the term "or" in the claims is used to mean "and/or" unless
explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the
alternatives are mutually exclusive, although the disclosure
supports a definition that refers to only alternatives and
"and/or." Throughout this application, the term "about" is used to
indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for
the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or
the variation that exists among the study subjects. The use of the
term "at least one" will be understood to include one as well as
any quantity more than one, including but not limited to, 2, 3, 4,
5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100, etc. The term "at least one" may
extend up to 100 or 1000 or more, depending on the term to which it
is attached; in addition, the quantities of 100/1000 are not to be
considered limiting, as higher limits may also produce satisfactory
results.
[0045] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words
"comprising" (and any form of comprising, such as "comprise" and
"comprises"), "having" (and any form of having, such as "have" and
"has"), "including" (and any form of including, such as "includes"
and "include") or "containing" (and any form of containing, such as
"contains" and "contain") are inclusive or open-ended and do not
exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.
[0046] The term "or combinations thereof" as used herein refers to
all permutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the
term. For example, "A, B, C, or combinations thereof" is intended
to include at least one of: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC, and if
order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA,
BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly
included are combinations that contain repeats of one or more item
or term, such as BB, AAA, MB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so
forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is
no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless
otherwise apparent from the context.
[0047] The terms "container", "packaging container", "sleeve" and
"bag" may be used herein interchangeably and will be understood to
refer to a protective covering for holding, containing and/or
protecting an item disposed therein during storage, shipment,
transport and/or display of said item. In certain embodiments, the
container includes a body with an interior space configured for
holding and/or containing the item. In certain other embodiments,
the container includes a tubular body with at least a first opening
in the body that is adapted for receiving the item. The container
may assume any desired shape, including but not limited to,
cylindrical, tapered, conical, frustoconical, combinations thereof,
and the like.
[0048] The term "preformed" as used herein, refers to an object
that has been formed into the condition in which it is used prior
to its use. This is in contrast to a sheet of material, which does
not have a formed shape in absence of an object. A sheet of
material requires that it be formed about an object, whereas a
preformed cover or container is provided with seals, folds or the
like which provide the cover or container with its preformed shape;
optionally, the preformed cover or container may be formed of a
material which has shape-sustaining characteristics that maintain
the cover or container in its preformed shape in the absence of an
object disposed therein.
[0049] The terms "polymer film" and "polymeric film", as used
herein, refer to polymers of natural or artificial origin, such as
a man-made polymer such as a polypropylene or a naturally occurring
polymer such as cellophane. A polymer film is relatively strong and
will not tear as easily as paper or foil.
[0050] The term "conformation induction member" as used herein will
be understood to include any element that connects the first and
second panels of the container at at least one point apart from the
first and second edges and the lower end of the container, and
which functions to induce a lower portion of the container to
assume a desired conformation and control the contour of the
container when filled. Any of the containers constructed in
accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) are provided with one or more conformation induction
member(s). The conformation induction member(s) is activated when
the container is opened and an item is disposed in at least a lower
portion of the container, wherein the weight and/or volume of the
item in combination with the conformation induction member(s)
substantially controls the contour of the filled container. The
conformation induction member specifically modifies the shape of
the filled container so that the container assumes a conformation
in the filled condition that is different from the container's
conformation in an empty condition.
[0051] The conformation induction member(s) of the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may be, for example but
not by way of limitation, seals, welds, adhesives, cohesive,
stitches, clamps, rings, or any other element that connects the two
panels as described herein above, as well as any combination
thereof. In addition, the conformation induction member(s) of the
presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may comprise a
continuous element (i.e., a continuous seal or continuous weld), or
may comprise a series of non-continuous elements, such as but not
limited to, dots, spots or lines (i.e., multiple spots of
seals/welds or multiple lines of seals/welds).
[0052] The conformation induction members of the presently
disclosed and claimed invention connect two points on a perimeter
surface of the sidewall of the container (i.e., connect the first
and second panels of the container to one another). This connection
may occur at one of the side edges of the container and extend to
the bottom of the container. Alternatively, this connection may
occur at the bottom of the container and extend to one of the side
edges of the container. In another alternative, this connection may
occur at one of the side edges of the container and extend only
partially, so that the connection does not extend to the bottom of
the container. In yet another alternative, this connection may
occur at the bottom of the container and extend only partially, so
that the connection does not extend to one of the side edges of the
container. In a further alternative, the connection is in a
position apart from the side edges and bottom of the container, and
the connection does not extend to either the side edges or the
bottom of the container.
[0053] As mentioned above, the containers of the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may be provided with one
or more conformation induction member(s). The addition of multiple
conformation induction members provides the ability to more
precisely control the contour of the lower portion/lower end of the
container. For example, it may be desired to provide the container
with a cylindrical bottom, and the addition of two or more
conformation induction member(s) would allow more control of the
contour of the lower end so that it may assume a substantially
cylindrical shape.
[0054] The terms "item" and "object" are used interchangeably
herein and will be understood to include any article, composition
or substance that is capable of being packaged in a container of
the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s). The item
utilized in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s) may be for example but not by way of
limitation, a solid material, a liquid material, a gaseous
material, a flowable material, a granular material, and any
combination thereof. The material may possess any desired
consistency, including but not limited to, fluid, cream, lotion,
gel, paste, powdered, aerosol, and the like. In a particular
example, the item may be a food product, such as but not limited
to, a liquid food product (i.e., drinking fluids, including water,
milk, tea, soda, wine, alcohols, juices, energy drinks and the
like; and other fluids such as oils, alcohols, vinegars, dressings,
batters, and the like); a powdered food product (i.e., sugars,
flours, sodas, powdered drinks, mixes, coffee, and the like); a
granular food product (i.e., beans, rice, pasta, cereal, oatmeal,
coffee, and the like); and any other food product capable of being
packaged in this manner (i.e., rice cakes, fruit, bread, other
perishable and non-perishable grocery items, and the like). In
other non-limiting examples, the item may be a cosmetic product
(i.e., perfume, makeup, moisturizer, and the like), a personal care
product (i.e., soap, deodorant, hair products, and the like); a
household or other consumable product (i.e., inks, paints, resins,
and the like), a cleaning product (i.e., laundry and dishwashing
detergents, surface cleaners, air fresheners, and the like); an
automotive product (i.e., cleaning products, oil, liquids, and the
like); a medical composition/drug; a medical device; a decorative
living or artificial item (i.e., floral grouping, plant, potted
plant, and the like); and any other product capable of being
packaging in this manner. Further, the item may include
combinations of any of the above.
[0055] The terms "substantially below a lower end" and "primarily
below a lower end" are used interchangeably herein and will be
understood to refer a position that is adjacent and contiguous to a
lower end.
[0056] The term "bonding material" as used herein refers to any
type of material or thing which can be used to effect the bonding
or connecting of two adjacent portions of material or sheets of
material to effect the connection or bonding described herein. For
example but not by way of limitation, the term "bonding material"
as used herein may refer to adhesives; cohesives; ties; labels;
bands; ribbons; strings; tapes; staples; a piece of wire, tie wrap
or twist ties; heat sealable, sonic sealable and vibratory sealable
materials; shrinkable materials; barbs, slots, holes, cuts, or
other barb-type fastening means or clamps; and combinations of any
of the above or any other device capable of gathering the sleeve to
removably or substantially permanently connect the container to an
object and/or form a crimped portion and secure the crimped portion
formed in the container which may be secured about an object
disposed therein.
[0057] The term "bonding material" may refer to an adhesive,
preferably a pressure sensitive adhesive, or a cohesive. Where the
bonding material is a cohesive, a similar cohesive material must be
disposed on an adjacent surface for bonding contact between the two
surfaces. "Bonding material" may also refer to materials which are
sonic sealable and vibratory sealable. The term "bonding material"
may also refer to a heat sealing lacquer which may be applied to
the sheet of material and, in this instance, heat, sound waves, or
vibrations, also must be applied to effect the sealing.
Furthermore, the term "bonding material" may also refer to any heat
or chemically shrinkable material, any electrical means, magnetic
means, mechanical or barb-type fastening means or clamps, curl-type
characteristics of the film or materials incorporated in the
material which can cause the material to take on certain shapes,
and any type of welding method which may weld portions of the
container to itself or to the item disposed therein, or to both the
container itself and the item disposed therein.
[0058] The term "band" when used herein refers to any material
which may be secured about an object such as a container and/or an
item disposed therein, such bands commonly being referred to as
elastic bands, rubber bands or non-elastic bands and may also refer
to any other type of material such as an elastic or non-elastic
string or elastic piece of material, non-elastic piece of material,
a round piece of material, a flat piece of material, a ribbon, a
piece of paper strip, a piece of plastic strip, a piece of wire, a
tie wrap or a twist tie or combinations thereof or any other device
capable of gathering the sleeve to removably or substantially
permanently form a crimped portion and secure the crimped portion
formed in the container which may be secured about an object
disposed therein. "Band" may also refer to a bow if desired in a
particular application.
[0059] The term "bonding material" may be used interchangeably
herein with the terms "banding element" and "securing element".
[0060] The term "detaching element" as used herein means any
element, or combination of elements, which enable the tearing away
or detachment of one object or portion of an object from another
object or portion of an object. For example, in accordance with the
presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s), a "detaching
element" may demarcate a packaging container into an upper portion
and a lower portion. Examples of detaching elements that may be
utilized in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s) include, but are not limited to, perforations,
tear strips, zippers, score lines, adhesive and any other devices
or elements known in the art, or any combination thereof, which
enables the detachment of a portion of an object from another
portion of the object.
[0061] The term "flower pot cover" as used herein refers to a
decorative covering for floral groupings, flower pots, soil or the
like and combinations thereof. The flower pot cover may be formed
by wrapping a sheet of material about the floral grouping/flower
pot, or the flower pot cover may be preformed into a desired shape
that is capable of accepting the floral grouping/flower pot.
Alternatively, the flower pot cover may assume a relatively tubular
shape, commonly referred to in the art as a "sleeve".
[0062] The term "flower pot" or "pot", as used herein, refers to
containers used for holding floral groupings or potted plants.
Examples of such flower pots are clay pots, plastic pots and the
like. The flower pot defines a receiving space adapted to receive
floral groupings. The floral grouping may be disposed within the
receiving space of the flower pot along with a suitable growing
medium, a floral foam or combinations thereof. It will also be
understood that in some cases the floral grouping, and any
appropriate growing medium or other retaining medium, may be
disposed in a flower pot cover without the flower pot if the flower
pot cover is adapted to contain the growing medium.
[0063] The term "floral grouping" as used herein will be understood
to include cut fresh flowers, artificial flowers, a single flower,
other fresh and/or artificial plants or other floral materials and
may include other secondary plants and/or ornamentation or
artificial or natural materials which add to the aesthetics of the
overall floral arrangement. In one embodiment, the floral grouping
may comprise a bloom or foliage portion and a stem portion.
However, it will be appreciated that the floral grouping may
consist of only a single bloom or only foliage (not shown). The
term "floral grouping" may be used interchangeably herein with the
term "floral arrangement".
[0064] The term "growing medium" when used herein means any liquid,
solid or gaseous material used for plant growth or for the
cultivation of propagules, including organic and inorganic
materials such as soil, humus, perlite, vermiculite, sand, water,
and including the nutrients, fertilizers or hormones or
combinations thereof required by the plants or propagules for
growth.
[0065] The term "botanical item" when used herein means a natural
or artificial herbaceous or woody plant, taken singly or in
combination. The term "botanical item" also means any portion or
portions of natural or artificial herbaceous or woody plants
including stems, leaves, flowers, blossoms, buds, blooms, cones, or
roots, taken singly or in combination, or in groupings of such
portions such as bouquet or floral grouping.
[0066] The term "propagule" when used herein means any structure
capable of being propagated or acting as an agent of reproduction
including seeds, shoots, stems, runners, tubers, plants, leaves,
roots or spores.
Description of FIGS. 1-2: Prior Art
[0067] The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s)
overcomes multiple disadvantages and defects of the prior art. For
example, shown in FIG. 1A is a typical non-gusseted container or
sleeve of the prior art. In said container, the lower end is
provided with a linear configuration and the side edges extend
therefrom at an angle. When an item is disposed in said container,
as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the lower end does not completely
conform to the configuration of a lower end of the item; instead,
portions of the lower end at the edges which attach to the sidewall
of the container extend outwardly from the container and beyond the
lower end of the item. Said outwardly extending portions can be
unsightly and unattractive.
[0068] To overcome this problem, packaging containers have been
provided with various types of gussets in the lower end thereof.
Sleeves having an inwardly folded gusset are known in the art. In
addition, as shown in FIG. 2, containers have previously been
provided with what has been termed an "external gusset". Said
external gusset is formed by providing the lower end of the
container with a half hexagonally shaped lower end. When an item is
disposed in the container, the outwardly extending portions
produced in the containers shown in FIG. 1 are not produced.
However, the process for producing this container has a decreased
production speed and increased tooling costs; in addition, the
increased number of seals in the container results in an increase
in the areas of the container that may leak. Therefore, there is a
need for new and improved configurations of packaging containers
that have increased production speed and decreased tooling costs
associated with the production thereof when compared to the prior
art, and that are substantially fluid retaining.
Description of FIGS. 3-9: Various Configurations of Confirmation
Induction Members
[0069] Therefore, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) is directed to a new and improved container
configuration that overcomes the disadvantages and defects in the
prior art. Said containers exhibit multiple advantages over the
prior art, including but not limited to, enhanced production speed
and reduced tooling costs as well as a reduction in areas of the
container that may leak. Particular embodiments of the container of
the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) will be
described in detail herein below; however, it is to be understood
that the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is
not limited to the particular configurations shown herein below,
and that any container configuration that possesses conformation
induction members falls within the scope of the presently disclosed
and claimed inventive concept(s).
[0070] Shown in FIG. 3 is a container 50 that is constructed in
accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s). The container 50 is preformed and has an upper end 52,
a lower end 54, and a sidewall 56 extending therebetween. The
container is further provided with an outer peripheral surface 58,
an inner peripheral surface 60 (see FIG. 10), wherein the inner
peripheral surface 60 defines a receiving space 61 (FIG. 10) into
which at least one item may be disposed. The sidewall 56 is formed
of a first panel 62 and a second panel 64 (FIG. 10) that are
connected together at a first edge 66 and a second edge 68. When in
the flattened condition, the lower end 54 of the container 50 may
be provided with a first end 70 and a second end 72. The first end
70 is connected to the first edge 66 of the sidewall 56, and the
second end 72 is connected to the second edge 68 of the sidewall
56.
[0071] Although the upper end 52 is shown in FIG. 3 as having a
linear configuration, it will be understood that the upper end 52
may have any linear or non-linear pattern or combinations thereof,
such as but not by way of limitation, geometric or non-geometric
patterns, for example, contoured, curved, scalloped, pointed, sine
wave, arced, toothed, angular, crenelate, crenate, crenulate,
starred, and the like. Alternatively, the upper end 52 may have a
configuration comprising a combination of a linear and non-linear
pattern or an irregular pattern. In addition, the lower end 54 may
also be provided with any configuration described herein above.
[0072] The container 50 is initially formed in a flattened
condition and is openable therefrom. In one embodiment, the
container 50 is formed by using a pair of webs of material such as
is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,562,798, issued to Weder et al., on
Oct. 8, 1996, entitled "Apparatus for Forming Sleeves", the
contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
In the flattened condition, the first and second sidewall edges 66
and 68 may extend angularly away from the lower end 54 at any
angle, or any combination of angles. In one embodiment, the first
and second sidewall edges 66 and 68 may extend away from the lower
end 54 such that the container 50 is provided with a tapered
configuration. It should also be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art that the first and second sidewall edges 66 and 68
may have a linear or nonlinear pattern.
[0073] The first and second panels 62 and 64 may be integrally
formed from a single sheet of material or may be extruded and/or
molded as one. Therefore, the first and second edges 66 and 68 are
to be understood to not be limited to specific connections or
seals, but rather represent delineation points between the first
and second panels 62 and 64 that are evident when the container 50
is in a flattened condition.
[0074] The container 50 is also provided with a first conformation
induction member 74 that extends generally downwardly from the
first edge 66 of the sidewall 56. The first conformation induction
member 74 connects the first and second panels 62 and 64 of the
sidewall 56 at at least one point on the inner peripheral surface
60 interior to the first edge 66.
[0075] The container 50 is also provided with a second conformation
induction member 76 that extends generally downwardly from the
second edge 68 of the sidewall 56. The second conformation
induction member 77 connects the first and second panels 62 and 64
of the sidewall 56 at at least one point on the inner peripheral
surface 60 interior to the second edge 68.
[0076] The material from which the containers of the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may be constructed may
be a single layer of material or a plurality of layers of the same
or different types of materials. The layers of material may be
laminated together or connected together by any method known in the
art. The containers may be formed of any material capable of use in
accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s). Non-limiting examples of materials from which the
containers of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s) include, but are not limited to, paper (untreated and
treated in any manner), metal, foil, polymeric film, fabric (woven,
non-woven, synthetic or natural), cardboard, fiber, cloth, burlap
or laminations and combinations thereof. The term "polymeric film"
as used herein refers to a film formed of synthetic polymers, such
as polypropylene, or naturally occurring polymers, such as
cellophane, which are relatively strong and not subject to tearing
(substantially non-tearable). Various types of "polymeric films"
are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,311,991, issued to Weder et al. on
May 17, 1994, the contents of which are hereby expressly
incorporated herein by reference.
[0077] If desired, the containers produced in accordance with the
presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may also be
provided with at least one of a color, design and/or decorative
pattern disposed on at least a portion thereof. The color(s),
design(s) and/or pattern(s) may be disposed on the containers of
the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) by any
method known in the art, including but not limited to, printing,
etching, embossing, texturing, flocking, coating, lacquering,
application during extrusion, and the like. The color(s), design(s)
and/or pattern(s) may be applied separately or simultaneously or
may be characterized totally or partially by pearlescent,
translucent, transparent, iridescent, optical effect, paper like,
cloth like, or other similar qualities, or may be a graphic image
selected from the group consisting of a rendering of at least a
portion of a masterpiece work of art, a rendering of at least a
portion of a work of art of a Great Master, a rendering of at least
a portion of a musical score, and combinations thereof. Each of the
above-named characteristics may occur alone or in combination and
may be applied to a portion of an inner peripheral surface and/or
an outer peripheral surface of the containers. Moreover, when the
container comprises two or more layers of material, each of the
layers of material may vary in the combination of such
characteristics.
[0078] In addition, when the container is provided with two or more
design(s) and/or pattern(s), the design(s) and/or pattern(s) may be
in register with one another or out of register with one another.
Alternatively, a portion of the two or more design(s) and/or
pattern(s) may be in register with one another, while another
portion of the two or more design(s) and/or pattern(s) may be out
of register with one another.
[0079] The term "optical effect material" as used herein is to be
understood to mean any material capable of changing appearance,
such as perspective and/or color, as the angle of view of such
material changes. Optical effect materials include, but are not
limited to, iridescent materials, materials having one or more
holograms and the like. Examples of floral packaging materials
having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance
of cloth have previously been disclosed by the inventor in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,576,089, issued Nov. 19, 1996; 5,634,318, issued Jun.
3, 1997; 5,701,720, issued Dec. 30, 1997; 5,727,362, issued Mar.
17, 1998; 5,775,057, issued Jul. 7, 1998; and 5,921,061, issued
Jul. 13, 1999. The entire contents of each of the above-referenced
patents are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.
[0080] The term "cloth-like" will be used interchangeably herein
with the term "texture and/or appearance simulating the texture
and/or appearance of cloth". Examples of floral packaging materials
having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance
of cloth have previously been disclosed by the inventor in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,324,813, issued Dec. 4, 2001; 6,387,463, issued May 14,
2002; 6,463,717, issued Oct. 15, 2002; 6,495,248, issued Dec. 17,
2002; 6,565,958, issued May 20, 2003; 6,565,963, issued May 20,
2003; 6,579,603, issued Jun. 17, 2003; 6,598,372, issued Jul. 29,
2003; 6,702,919, issued Mar. 9, 2004; 6,706,379, issued Mar. 16,
2004; 6,708,464, issued Mar. 23, 2004; 6,715,261, issued Apr. 6,
2004; 6,720,051, issued Apr. 13, 2004; and 6,723,417, issued Apr.
20, 2004. The entire contents of each of the above-referenced
patents are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.
[0081] The term "paper-like" will be used interchangeably herein
with the term "texture and/or appearance simulating the texture
and/or appearance of paper". Examples of floral packaging materials
having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance
of paper have previously been disclosed by the inventor in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 6,365,251, issued Apr. 2, 2002; 6,401,430, issued Jun.
11, 2002; 6,403,207, issued Jun. 11, 2002; 6,425,224, issued Jul.
30, 2002; 6,521,307, issued Feb. 18, 2003; 6,613,409, issued Sep.
2, 2003; 6,755,006, issued Jun. 29, 2004; 6,884,484, issued Apr.
26, 2005; and 6,887,545, issued May 3, 2005. The entire contents of
each of the above-referenced patents are hereby expressly
incorporated herein by reference.
[0082] The term "masterpiece work of art" is defined herein as any
product of one of the fine arts, such as a painting or a photograph
that is widely recognizable by the public and can generally be said
to provide aesthetic satisfaction to the viewer. The term
"rendering of at least a portion of a masterpiece work of art" not
only includes exact reproductions of an original work but will also
include reproductions and partial reproductions that resemble an
original masterpiece work of art, such as a forgery or an
imitation, works that contain an adoption of a general style of
artistic expression that is recognizable, such as the Impressionist
style of painting, and works that include alterations to a famous
work, such as a negative image of a work, a change in coloration of
a work, or the addition of a person, object or logo to a work. The
term "works of the Great Masters" is to be understood to mean a
work of art produced by an artist generally associated with at
least one of the historical periods or movements. Examples of
floral packaging materials produced using with such graphic images
have previously been disclosed by the inventor in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,510,650, issued Jan. 28, 2003; 6,691,457, issued Feb. 17, 2004;
and 6,678,998, issued Jan. 20, 2004. The entire contents of each of
the above-referenced patents are hereby expressly incorporated
herein by reference.
[0083] Shown in FIG. 4 is another embodiment of a container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s). Said container is generally indicated by the
reference numeral 50a and is similar to the container 50 of FIG. 3
except as described herein below. The container 50a is provided
with an upper end 52a, a lower end 54a, a sidewall 56a comprising a
first panel 62a and a second panel 64a, an outer peripheral surface
58a, an inner peripheral surface (not shown) and a receiving space
(not shown). The first and second panels 62a and 64a are connected
together at a first edge 66a and a second edge 68a. In the
flattened condition, the lower end 54a comprises a first end 70a
(connected to the first edge 66a) and a second end 72a (connected
to the second edge 68a). The container 50a also comprises a first
conformation induction member 74a and a second conformation
induction member 76a.
[0084] The container 50a of FIG. 4 differs from the container 50 of
FIG. 3 in the configuration of the conformation induction members
74a and 76a. The first conformation induction member 74a is
connected to the lower end 54a at a position between the first and
second ends 70a and 72a thereof, and the first conformation
induction member 74a extends generally upwardly towards the first
edge 66a of the sidewall 56a. The first conformation induction
member 74a connects the first and second panels 62a and 64a at at
least one point on the inner peripheral surface 60a interior to the
first edge 66a of the sidewall 56a. The second conformation
induction member 76a is connected to the lower end 54a at a
position between the first and second ends 70a and 72a thereof, and
the second conformation induction member 76a extends generally
upwardly towards the second edge 68a of the sidewall 56a. The
second conformation induction member 76a connects the first and
second panels 62a and 64a at at least one point on the inner
peripheral surface 60a interior to the second edge 68a of the
sidewall 56a.
[0085] Shown in FIG. 5 is another embodiment of a container
constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s). Said container is generally indicated by the
reference numeral 50b and is similar to the containers 50 and 50a
of FIGS. 3-4 except as described herein below. The container 50b is
provided with an upper end 52b, a lower end 54b, a sidewall 56b
comprising a first panel 62b and a second panel 64b, an outer
peripheral surface 58b, an inner peripheral surface (not shown) and
a receiving space (not shown). The first and second panels 62b and
64b are connected together at a first edge 66b and a second edge
68b. In the flattened condition, the lower end 54b comprises a
first end 70b (connected to the first edge 66b) and a second end
72b (connected to the second edge 68b). The container 50b also
comprises a first conformation induction member 74b and a second
conformation induction member 76b.
[0086] The container 50b of FIG. 5 differs from the containers 50
and 50a of FIGS. 3-4 in the configuration of the conformation
induction members 74b and 76b. The first conformation induction
member 74b is connected to the lower end 54b at a position between
the first and second ends 70b and 72b thereof, and the first
conformation induction member 74b extends generally upwardly from
the lower end 54b to the first edge 66b of the sidewall 56b.
Likewise, the second conformation induction member 76b is connected
to the lower end 54b at a position between the first and second
ends 70b and 72b thereof, and the second conformation induction
member 76b extends generally upwardly from the lower end 54b to the
second edge 68b of the sidewall 56b.
[0087] Any of the containers 50, 50a and 50b described herein above
may be provided with various changes to their configurations and
may comprise additional elements not shown in FIGS. 3-5. FIGS. 6-9
depict various elements that may be utilized with any of the
containers 50-50b or any other containers described herein. FIG. 6
depicts a container 50c that is similar to any of the containers
50, 50a and 50b, except that an upper end 52c of container 50c is
provided with a curved or scalloped configuration. FIGS. 7 and 8
depict containers 50d and 50e that are demarcated into upper and
lower portions by a detaching element. In FIG. 7, the container 50d
is provided with an upper portion 78 and a lower portion 80 that
are separable via a detaching element 82. The detachment of the
upper portion 78 provides an upper end 52d of the container 50d,
wherein the upper end 52d is provided with a linear configuration.
Similarly, FIG. 8 also depicts a container 50e having upper and
lower portions 78e and 80e separable via a detaching element 82e,
except that detachment of the upper portion 78e provides an upper
end 52e having a contoured or scalloped configuration.
[0088] FIG. 9 depicts yet another element that could be added to
any of the containers constructed in accordance with the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s). Container 50f is
depicted as having a skirt insert or extension 84 having an upper
end 86. The skirt insert or extension 84 is further depicted as
extending beyond an upper end 52f of a body of the container 50f.
However, it is to be understood that the upper end 86 of the skirt
insert or extension 84 may be substantially flush with or disposed
below the upper end 52f of the body of the container 50f. In one
embodiment, the skirt insert or extension 84 may be attached or
laminated via a seal to portions of a first panel 62f and/or a
second panel 64f of the container 50f. The skirt insert or
extension 84 may be constructed of a material which is different
from the material used to construct the remainder of the container
50f, or may be constructed of a material which has a different
color or pattern but which is otherwise similar to the material
used to construct the remainder of the container 50f.
[0089] In one alternative, the skirt insert or extension 84 may be
attached to only one of the first panel 62f or the second panel 64f
of the container 50f rather than to both the first and second
panels 62f and 64f. Further, any of the containers described herein
may be constructed to have a skirt insert such as the skirt insert
84. In addition, any of the containers described herein may have
more than one skirt insert. Any of the containers described herein
may have two or more skirt inserts, and in this instance, each of
the skirt inserts may be disposed above, below or substantially
flush with an upper end of a body of the container, and each of the
skirt inserts may be constructed of the same or different materials
or materials having different colors or patterns. Further
description of the use of a skirt insert or extension with a
container can be found in US Published Application No.
2003/0066265, published to Weder et al. on Apr. 10, 2003, the
entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein
by reference.
[0090] It will also be understood by a person of ordinary skill in
the art that although the location of the seal connecting the skirt
insert 84 is described above as being positioned near the upper end
52f, the seal connecting the skirt extension 84 to the container
50f may in fact be positioned at any location below the upper end
52f and above a lower end 54f and at any position on an inner
and/or outer surface 58f or 60f of the container 50f. Further, the
skirt insert 84 may be attached after the container 501 has been
formed, or before the material has been formed into container 50f
by a container forming apparatus. In other words, the separate
materials used to construct the container 50f and the skirt insert
84 may be laminated or otherwise connected together while the webs
of material are in a flattened, unformed condition. Where used
herein, the term "skirt insert" may also be used interchangeably
with the term "skirt extension" in that the "skirt insert" may not
actually have been "inserted" into the container but may have been
"pre-attached" by lamination as described above.
[0091] As noted above, any of the containers described herein may
comprise a skirt insert. In those container embodiments having both
a skirt insert and an upper portion sized to surround and enclose a
floral grouping, and/or for supporting the container from a support
assembly or as an attachment within a pad, the upper portion may be
attached to the body, to the skirt portion, or to the skirt insert
of the container.
Description of FIGS. 10-12: Use of Any of the Containers of FIGS.
3-9
[0092] FIGS. 10-12 illustrate the use of any of the containers
50-501 constructed in accordance with the presently disclosed and
claimed inventive concept(s). While said Figures are shown with
reference to container 50b, it is to be understood that any of the
containers shown or otherwise described herein will function in the
same manner, and thus the use of container 50b is not to be
construed as limiting.
[0093] In FIG. 10, an item 90 is partially disposed in the
container 50b. The item 90 is provided with an upper end 92, a
lower end 94 and a sidewall 96. As can be seen, the item 90 is
disposed within the receiving space 61b of the container 50b.
[0094] In FIG. 11, the item 90 is almost completely disposed in the
container 50b. As can be seen, the lower end 54b of the container
50b no longer possesses a linear configuration, as the conformation
induction members 74b and 76b are inducing the lower portion of the
container 50b to assume a desired conformation in response to the
volume of the item 90 disposed in the receiving space 61b of the
container 50b. In this manner, the first end 70b and second end 72b
are being pulled inward until they are disposed in a position that
is substantially below and contiguous to a lower end 94 of the item
90.
[0095] FIG. 12 illustrates the item 90 completely disposed in the
container 50b, as the lower end 94 of the item 90 is disposed upon
a support surface. The first and second ends 70b and 72b
(respectively) are disposed underneath the lower end 94 of the item
90 and thus do not form the unsightly outwardly extending portions
of the prior art (see FIG. 1C). Rather, the filled container 50b
assumes the contour of the item 90. The contour of the filled
container 50b is thus controlled by the conformation induction
members 74b and 76b and the weight and/or volume of the item
90.
Description of FIGS. 13-18
[0096] FIGS. 13-15 depict containers 100, 100a and 100b,
respectively, that are constructed in accordance with the presently
disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s). The containers 100,
100a and 100b are similar to the containers 50-50f described herein
above, except that the containers 100, 100a and 100b of FIGS. 13-15
only possess one conformation induction member.
[0097] Shown in FIG. 13 is a container 100 that is constructed in
accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s). The container 100 has an upper end 102, a lower end
104, and a sidewall 106 extending therebetween. The container is
further provided with an outer peripheral surface 108, an inner
peripheral surface 110 (see FIG. 16), wherein the inner peripheral
surface 110 defines a receiving space 112 (FIG. 16) into which at
least one item may be disposed. The sidewall 106 is formed of a
first panel 114 and a second panel 116 (FIG. 16) that are connected
together at a first edge 118 and a second edge 120. When in the
flattened condition, the lower end 104 of the container may be
provided with a first end 122 and a second end 124. The first end
122 is connected to the first edge 118 of the sidewall 106, and the
second end 124 is connected to the second edge 120 of the sidewall
106.
[0098] The container 100 is also provided with a conformation
induction member 126 that extends generally downwardly from the
first edge 118 of the sidewall 106 to the first end 124 of the
lower end 104.
[0099] Shown in FIG. 14 is a container 100a similar to the
container 100, except that a conformation induction member 126a
thereof extends generally downwardly from a first edge 118a of a
sidewall 106a thereof, and connects first and second panels 114a
and 116a (FIG. 17) of the sidewall 106a at at least one point on an
inner peripheral surface 110a (FIG. 17) interior to a second edge
120a.
[0100] Shown in FIG. 15 is a container 100b similar to the
containers 100 and 100a, except that a conformation induction
member 126b thereof extends generally downwardly from a first edge
118b of a sidewall 106b thereof and is connected to a lower end
104b of the container 100b at a position between first and second
ends 122b and 124b thereof.
[0101] FIG. 16 depicts at least one item 128 being disposed in the
receiving space 112 of the container 100. A lower end 130 of the
item 128 is disposed upon a support surface. The filled container
100 assumes the contour of the item 128. The contour of the filled
container 100 is thus controlled by the conformation induction
member 126 and the weight and/or volume of the item 128.
[0102] FIG. 17 depicts at least one item 128a being disposed in the
receiving space 112a of the container 100a. A lower end 130a of the
item 128a is disposed upon a support surface. The filled container
100a assumes the contour of the item 128a. The contour of the
filled container 100a is thus controlled by the conformation
induction member 126a and the weight and/or volume of the item
128a.
[0103] FIG. 18 depicts at least one item 128b being disposed in the
receiving space 112b of the container 100b. A lower end 130b of the
item 128b is disposed upon a support surface. The filled container
100b assumes the contour of the item 128b. The contour of the
filled container 100b is thus controlled by the conformation
induction member 126b and the weight and/or volume of the item
128b.
Description of FIGS. 19-22
[0104] While the containers of FIGS. 3-18 have been illustrated
herein as having one or two conformation induction members, it is
to be understood that the containers of the presently disclosed and
claimed inventive concept(s) may be provided with three or more
conformation induction members. The addition of multiple
conformation induction members provides greater control of the
contour of the lower portion of the filled container.
[0105] Shown in FIGS. 19-22 is a container 140 that is constructed
in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed inventive
concept(s). The container 140 is similar to any of the containers
50-50f and 100-100b as described herein above, except that the
container 140 is provided with more than two conformation induction
members.
[0106] The container 140 has an upper end 142, a lower end 144, and
a sidewall 146 extending therebetween. The container is further
provided with an outer peripheral surface 148 and an inner
peripheral surface 150 (FIG. 21), wherein the inner peripheral
surface 150 defines a receiving space 152 (FIG. 21) into which at
least one item may be disposed. The sidewall 146 is formed of a
first panel 154 and a second panel 156 that are connected together
at a first edge 158 and a second edge 160. When in the flattened
condition, the lower end 144 of the container may be provided with
a first end 162 and a second end 164. The first end 162 is
connected to the first edge 158 of the sidewall 146, and the second
end 164 is connected to the second edge 160 of the sidewall
146.
[0107] The container 140 is also provided with four conformation
induction members: a first conformation induction member 166, a
second conformation induction member 168, a third conformation
induction member 170, and a fourth conformation induction member
172.
[0108] The placement of the first and second conformation induction
members 166 and 168 is similar to the placement of the first and
second conformation induction members 74b and 76b of the container
50b of FIG. 5; that is, the first conformation induction member 166
is connected to the lower end 144 at a position between the first
and second ends 162 and 164 thereof, and the first conformation
induction member 166 extends generally upwardly from the lower end
144 to the first edge 158 of the sidewall 146. Likewise, the second
conformation induction member 168 is connected to the lower end 144
at a position between the first and second ends 162 and 164
thereof, and the second conformation induction member 168 extends
generally upwardly from the lower end 144 to the second edge 160 of
the sidewall 144.
[0109] The third conformation induction member 170 extends from a
portion of the first panel 154, intersects that lower end 144 and
connects to a portion of the second panel 156. In this manner, the
third conformation induction member 170 intersects the lower end
144 and is disposed at an angle thereto; for example but not by way
of limitation, the third conformation induction member 170 is
depicted in FIG. 19 as being disposed perpendicular to the lower
end 144 of the container 140. The portion of the third conformation
induction member 170 that extends from the portion of the first
panel 154 to the lower end 144 connects a portion of the first
panel 154 to itself, while the portion of the third conformation
induction member 170 that extends from the lower end 144 to the
portion of the second panel 156 connects a portion of the second
panel 156 to itself.
[0110] In the same manner, the fourth conformation induction member
172 extends from a portion of the first panel 154, intersects that
lower end 144 and connects to a portion of the second panel 156. In
this manner, the fourth conformation induction member 172
intersects the lower end 144 and is disposed at an angle thereto;
for example but not by way of limitation, the fourth conformation
induction member 172 is depicted in FIG. 19 as being disposed
perpendicular to the lower end 144 of the container 140. The
portion of the fourth conformation induction member 172 that
extends from the portion of the first panel 154 to the lower end
144 connects a portion of the first panel 154 to itself, while the
portion of the fourth conformation induction member 172 that
extends from the lower end 144 to the portion of the second panel
156 connects a portion of the second panel 156 to itself.
[0111] In FIGS. 20 and 21, at least one item 174 having an upper
end 176 and a lower end 178 is depicted as being disposed in the
container 140. In FIG. 20, the container 140 having the item 174
disposed therein is depicted as being placed upon its side on a
support surface (whereby the second panel 156 is contact with the
support surface), so that the placement of the conformation
induction members 166, 168, 170 and 172, as well as the placement
of the first and second ends 162 and 164 of the lower end 144, can
be easily viewed. In FIG. 21, the lower end 144 of the container
140 is disposed upon a support surface. As can be seen in these two
Figures, the filled container 140 assumes the contour of the item
174. The contour of the filled container 140 is thus controlled by
the conformation induction members 166, 168, 170 and 172 and the
weight and/or volume of the item 174. The use of the four
conformation induction members 166, 168, 170 and 172 provides
greater control of the contour of the lower portion of the filled
container 140.
[0112] Any of the containers constructed in accordance with the
presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) may further be
secured about an item disposed therein via a securing element, such
as a bonding material. For the purposes of illustration only, FIG.
22 depicts the container 140 secured about the item 174 via a
bonding material 180. However, it is to be understood that a
bonding material may be utilized in a similar fashion with any of
the containers 50-50f and 100-100b as well as any other container
contemplated herein.
[0113] The bonding material 180 is depicted in FIG. 22 as being
disposed about the container 140 at a position above the upper end
176 of the item 174 so as to secure the container 140 about the
item 174. However, it is to be understood that the bonding material
180 may be disposed adjacent or below the upper end 176 of the item
174 and thus adjacent the at least one item 174.
[0114] Thus, in accordance with the presently disclosed and claimed
inventive concept(s), there has been provided containers having
conformation induction members, as well we methods for producing
and using same. Although the presently claimed and disclosed
inventive concept(s) has been described in conjunction with the
specific drawings and language set forth above, it is evident that
many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace
all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall
within the spirit and broad scope of the presently disclosed and
claimed inventive concept(s).
* * * * *